Early homes required long, arduous work involving the use of axes and chisels, as well as a host of other tools relying solely on muscle power. Even though building these homes was hard work, it had definite advantages. Unlike log homes that were completely made of wood, timber frame walls use fills of mud, brick or other material, which could then be covered with plaster. This gave a much lighter appearance, and cut down on the use of timber where it was scarce.

Over time innovations were introduced that reduced timber usage and emphasized simplicity and functionality, making timber framing more affordable. The two most important advancements in timber frame construction were the invention of large predesigned frame units and the introduction of energy efficiency. The results of large windows, easily circulating air and insulated roof panels are some of the best insulated, most energy efficient homes available.

Style

Timber homes can be made to appear in any style, modern or traditional. Spacious, open interiors within a self-supporting outer shell are typical of most timber-framed homes. This adds to the design possibilities, by allowing the indoor space to be left open, divided and designed in almost any way imaginable.

Design

Don't underestimate the importance of a thorough design or the amount of time required to produce it. A designer's experience with construction not only can help you avoid many expenses, but should also enable you to take advantage of the most economical methods for building your design. The designs are documents that must communicate the details of construction to financiers, general contractors, suncontractors and anyone else involved in the project. Floor plans are probably the most flexible element in timber frame design since the need for load-bearing interior walls has been eliminated (all loads are carried by posts).

Checks are the grain separations that appear on the surface of the timbers. They are caused as the timbers dry and shrink. When wood begins to lose the water that can account for over seventy-five percent of its live weight, it shrinks in size. As the shrinkage occurs, the timber pulls itself apart in isolated areas along the grain lines.

While timbers will not shrink significantly in length, their cross-grain dimensions can shrink noticeably. This usually begins to appear in the first and second year after construction. For example, beams that were tightly butted against posts at the time of the frame raising might show gaps a year or two later. This shrinkage is taken into account in the pre-engineering of timber sizes and joinery, and does not significantly affect structural integrity.

Evidence of shrinkage will also appear where the timbers meet the walls and roof. As the framing contracts, more of the wall or roof surface will be exposed and a paint or wallpaper line will appear. After the timbers have stabilized (usually within about three or four years), you may want to touch up the finish in these areas.

Braces will also shrink, but builders avoid the paint line by centering them on the post and girt rather than placing them flush against the wall. This provides enough space for the painter or paperhanger to extend the finish behind the brace.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com